Dearne MP visits WWI battlefields

Michael Dugher MP

A delegation from Barnsley, including MP Michael Dugher whose constituency covers part of the Dearne, paid respect to the Barnsley Pals as they mark the centenary of the outbreak of WW1.

The group paid the bill themselves for a two-day tour of the former battlefields sites on the Western Front. They visited Serre, the village where the Barnsley Pals fought on July 1 1916 on the first day of the Battle of the Somme, that saw 545 casualties.

The delegation laid a wreath at the official memorial to the Barnsley pals at Serre.

Mr Dugher said: “People in Barnsley are rightly immensely proud of our Armed Forces. It is a huge privilege to have the opportunity to commemorate the bravery, service and sacrifice of so many men from Barnsley.

Dan Jarvis, who is also leading on the First World War commemorations for the Labour Party, said: “I know there’s huge interest across Barnsley in the impact the conflict had on our town.

“It’s right that we pay tribute to those soldiers who didn’t return home.

“I’m working to ensure we see fitting commemorations taking place across the country later this year.”